Fantasy has often been an underserved film genre.
The genre has gone through different phases of popularity, and audience interest inevitably ebbs and flows.
One thing his films are not, though, is boring.
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They move with purpose through energetic camerawork, frenetic editing, and quick-witted dialogue.
It also has aDavid Beckhamcameo, so there’s that.
The film is far from perfect.
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Unsurprisingly,Return to Ozwas panned by critics, who didn’t appreciate its darker approach toL.
Frank Baum’s characters.
Much likeThe Black Cauldron, the film has gained a minor cult following.
The filmcombines small-town horror with folkloric fantasyto create one of the most underrated young adult films ever made.
It also features a fantastic early performance fromfuture Bond villainJonathan Pryceas the enigmatic leader of the carnival, Mr.
The most notice the film has ever received was when Disney thought about remaking it.
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That was over a decade ago; the remake remains unmade, andthe original is still sadly overlooked.
It may have something to do with the different and varied versions that exist.
The film had two different cuts that were released to European and American audiences, respectively.
Why audiences didn’t respond to the film is anyone’s guess.
The feudal Japan setting lends itself to some arresting visuals and amazing action sequences.
Before LAIKA’s next movie arrives,audiences should rediscover what may be their best film.
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Those viewers looking forone of the darkest fantasy movies ever madeshould absolutely seek this one out.
Some critics derided the film as style over substance, but that style is completely unparalleled.
DirectorTarsem Singhis known for films with mind-bending visuals, andThe Fallis no different; every frame is gorgeous.
Beyond the visuals, the film features an intriguing take on the nature ofhow stories are told and interpreted.
Lee Paceplays a stuntperson who has been paralyzed and is bed-bound in a hospital.
The result isa creative dissonance between intent and interpretation.
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The climactic cave-set dragon battle set a high-water mark that fantasy films have yet to clear.
Martinamong its fans.It’s one of the best fantasy films ever made.
NEXT:The 15 Darkest Fantasy Movies, Ranked
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